African Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology | 03 November 2016
A Scoping Review of National Medicine Policy in Uganda: An African Perspective
J, u, l, i, u, s, O, p, i, o, ,, D, a, v, i, d, K, a, t, o, M, u, b, i, r, u, ,, A, i, s, h, a, N, a, l, w, o, g, a
Abstract
National medicine policies are essential for equitable access to medicines and universal health coverage. In Uganda, as in similar settings, developing and implementing these policies presents distinct challenges. A consolidated overview of Uganda’s policy landscape is required to guide future action. This scoping review aimed to systematically map and analyse the literature on national medicine policy in Uganda. Its objectives were to identify key themes, documented gaps, and implementation challenges within the policy framework. The review followed Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. A systematic search was conducted across multiple electronic databases and grey literature sources. Published and unpublished documents, including policy documents and academic studies, were screened against pre-defined criteria. Data were analysed thematically. Key findings indicate that while a formal National Medicines Policy exists, its implementation is inconsistent. A prominent theme was the recurrent challenge of medicine stock-outs in public health facilities, which significantly hinders access. Other themes included financing constraints, human resource limitations, and the need for stronger regulatory enforcement. Uganda’s national medicine policy framework is established but faces substantial systemic barriers to effective implementation. A persistent disconnect between policy intent and practical execution compromises medicine security and equitable access. Future efforts should prioritise strengthening medicine supply chains, increasing sustainable domestic financing, and enhancing monitoring and evaluation of policy implementation. Further primary research is needed to evaluate the impact of specific policy interventions on health outcomes. Medicines policy, Essential medicines, Uganda, Health policy, Access to medicines, Scoping review, East Africa This review provides a synthesised analysis of Uganda’s medicine policy landscape, clarifying key implementation challenges and offering evidence to inform policy strengthening and future research.